News Release

Lion Recognized by World Health Organization for SightFirst Efforts

Oak Brook, Illinois, December 18, 2009 – The World Health Organization has recognized Lion Dominique Coste for her SightFirst efforts toward eliminating onchocerciasis in Cameroon. SightFirst is Lions Clubs International Foundation’s successful programto save or restore sight to millions of people worldwide. She has been project chairperson of SightFirst projects in Cameroon since the first grant to the country in 1992. Coste passed away November 4, 2009.

She gave countless hours to helping the less fortunate, both in her home country of Cameroon, as well as throughout all of Africa. A native of France, she resided in Cameroon.

Initially scared to take the medication, Dominique’s kind smile and friendly words, erased all fears and made the villagers anxious for each dose of Mectizan, the drug to control and eliminate the spread of onchocerciasis, or river blindness. They knew they would not live a life of blindness like their grandparent’s generation.

She also helped construct homes for the disabled through Lions partnership with Habitat for Humanity. She took great delight in improving people’s lives. Through LCIF, Lions are providing miracles every day, everywhere that are having a lasting impact on so many lives.

Lions Clubs International Foundation is the charitable arm of LionsClubs International, the largest service club organization in the worldwith more than 1.35 million members in 206 geographic areas andcountries. LCIF was ranked by a Financial Times' study as the numberone non-governmental organization with which to partner. Learn more about LCIF online at www.lcif.org.